According to the Harvard Dictionary of Music, an opera is "a drama that is primarily sung, accompanied by instruments, and presented theatrically." Although operas are predominantly performed as high art and drama in theaters, they may be given on a smaller scale as a concert version with chorus, orchestra, and soloists.
One of Puccini's most beloved operas, Tosca, will be performed by the Greater Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, April 21, 2007 at 8:00 p.m. Conductor Gustav Meier, Soprano Victoria Litherland, Tenor, Arnold Rawls, Baritone Todd Thomas, and Baritone Curtis Olds, will appear with the Mendelssohn Choir of Connecticut and the Fairfield University Chamber Singers for this event. Ms. Litherland will star as Floria Tosca, Mr. Rawls as her lover Mario Cavaradossi, Mr. Thomas as Baron Scarpia, and Mr. Olds as the Sacristan.
To get acquainted with this story of evil, love, murder, and vengeance, feel free to read the libretto or the story. The Library offers performances by Maria Callas and the La Scala Orchestra and Chorus, or by Jane Eaglen and the Philharmonia Orchestra. If you would prefer to watch it, the Library has it on DVD starring Eva Marton and the Elizabethan Sydney Orchestra.
